St. Bernard's Well

Location

About

Located in the heart of Edinburgh, Scotland, St. Bernard's Well is a historical landmark that is sure to leave a lasting impression on any tourist. With its stunning architecture, rich history, and picturesque surroundings, it's no wonder why St. Bernard's Well is a popular attraction among visitors to Edinburgh.

The well itself is named after St. Bernard of Clairvaux, a French abbot and theologian who lived in the 12th century. The structure was built in the late 18th century and is a testament to the neoclassical architectural style that was popular at the time. It was designed by architect Alexander Nasmyth, who is known for his work on other prominent Edinburgh landmarks such as the Scott Monument and the Royal Observatory.

One of the most striking features of St. Bernard's Well is its location. Situated on the banks of the Water of Leith, the well overlooks a beautiful, tranquil landscape that is the perfect setting for a peaceful stroll or a quiet picnic. Visitors can take a leisurely walk along the river and enjoy the natural beauty of the area, or they can simply relax on the benches and take in the serene atmosphere.

But St. Bernard's Well is more than just a pretty location. It has a rich history that is well worth exploring. The well was built in the late 18th century as a tribute to the healing properties of the mineral water that flowed from the nearby springs. At the time, it was believed that the water had medicinal qualities that could cure a variety of ailments, and people from all over the country would come to the well to drink the water and bathe in its healing properties.

In addition to its medicinal properties, St. Bernard's Well also has a fascinating connection to the occult. In the 19th century, the well became a popular destination for followers of the occult, who believed that the water had magical properties that could help them communicate with the spirit world. Some even claimed that they had seen ghosts and other supernatural beings while at the well.

Today, St. Bernard's Well is a popular tourist attraction that is open to visitors year-round. Visitors can explore the well's beautiful architecture, take in the stunning views of the Water of Leith, and learn about the well's fascinating history. The area around the well is also home to a number of other attractions, including the Dean Gallery, the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, and the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh.

Whether you're a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful place to relax and take in the beauty of Scotland, St. Bernard's Well is a must-see destination in Edinburgh. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and picturesque surroundings, it's a true gem among the city's many landmarks and attractions.

Gallery

Things to do nearby

St. Bernard's Well is a historic site located in the Dean Village area of Edinburgh, Scotland. This stunning site has been attracting visitors for centuries, and it's not hard to see why. Nestled in the heart of Scotland's capital city, St. Bernard's Well is surrounded by some of the most beautiful scenery and historic landmarks in the country. If you're planning a visit to St. Bernard's Well, there are plenty of places and things to do nearby that will make your trip even more memorable. In this article, we'll take a look at some of the top attractions and activities in the area.

1. Visit the Dean Village
The Dean Village is one of the most picturesque and tranquil areas in Edinburgh. This charming neighborhood is full of narrow cobbled streets, winding pathways, and historic buildings. Take a stroll along the Water of Leith Walkway and enjoy the peaceful sound of the river as you explore this quaint village. Along the way, you'll see some of the most beautiful 19th-century buildings in Scotland, including the Dean Bridge and the stunning St. Bernard's Well.

2. Explore the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art
If you're an art lover, then the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art is a must-visit destination. This world-renowned gallery houses an impressive collection of contemporary art, including works by some of the biggest names in the art world. The gallery is set in beautiful gardens that are perfect for a picnic or a leisurely stroll.

3. Take a Tour of the Royal Botanic Garden
The Royal Botanic Garden is one of the most beautiful gardens in Scotland, and it's just a short distance from St. Bernard's Well. With over 13,000 plant species and a variety of themed gardens, this is the perfect place to spend a sunny afternoon. Take a guided tour of the garden to learn more about the different plants and their history.

4. Visit Edinburgh Castle
No trip to Edinburgh is complete without a visit to the iconic Edinburgh Castle. This historic fortress has stood guard over the city for centuries, and it's a must-visit destination for history buffs. Take a guided tour of the castle and learn about the fascinating history of this ancient monument.

5. Experience the Edinburgh Fringe Festival
If you're lucky enough to visit Edinburgh during the month of August, then you're in for a real treat. The Edinburgh Fringe Festival is one of the largest arts festivals in the world, and it takes place throughout the city. With hundreds of performances and shows every day, there's something for everyone at the Fringe.

6. Take a Ghost Tour of Edinburgh
Edinburgh is known for its dark and spooky history, and there's no better way to experience it than by taking a ghost tour of the city. These tours take you to some of the most haunted locations in Edinburgh, including the infamous Mary King's Close and the Greyfriars Kirkyard.

7. Go Shopping on Princes Street
Princes Street is one of the most popular shopping destinations in Edinburgh. With a variety of high street and designer stores, as well as plenty of cafes and restaurants, this is the perfect place to spend an afternoon browsing and shopping.

In conclusion, St. Bernard's Well is a fantastic destination for anyone visiting Edinburgh. With so many amazing attractions and activities nearby, there's no shortage of things to see and do. Whether you're interested in art, history, or just want to soak up the beautiful scenery, there's something for everyone in this historic and vibrant city.